Congenital Heart Disease
About Congenital Heart Disease
Congenital heart disease (CHD), also called congenital heart defects, describes differences in how the heart formed before birth. These can take many shapes, such as holes between chambers, valve problems, heart muscle problems or narrow blood vessels. With advances in diagnosis, surgery and long-term care, most children born with CHD now live into adulthood. That means understanding CHD as a lifelong condition, not just a birth defect, is increasingly important.
New Guideline on Managing CHD in Adults
A new guideline on managing congenital heart disease in adults from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology includes updates on mental health, physical activity and pregnancy for patients.
Talking to your Children about Congenital Heart Disease
Congenital Heart Disease is complicated and can be hard to explain to the sibling of a child born with a special heart. The American Heart Association and the Children's Heart Foundation have created an animated video to help parents navigate these difficult conversations with siblings (and other young family members) to help them better understand how they can support a loved one living with congenital heart disease.
CHD Survivor Stories
Find stories from survivors and mothers about their experience living with congenital heart disease.
An online community where sharing is our strength.
The Support Network connects you with people who have been there before. From heart disease survivors to those caring for loved ones, they know what you’re going through and are always there, so you don’t go through it alone. From sharing stories to offering support, find your community here.
American Heart Association and The Children's Heart Foundation
We have joined forces to help further lifesaving research for congenital heart defects.
